In 2005, Joe Parsons moved back to Austin from Boston (rhymes are gross) with a jones to do some sketch comedy. Inspired by all the typical comedy nerd influences, Joe enlisted two of his best improv buddies Ben Bartley and Scott Chester and set out to create a show unique to the Austin comedy scene, one that blended live and video vignettes in the style of Monty Python and Mr. Show (see? typical nerds). STAG! debuted their first show at the Hideout Theatre in January, 2006 (actual date lost to time). Despite a severe ice storm, every seat in the house was full. It didn’t hurt “sales” that they were giving away free beer and charging zero dollars for admission.